China's foreign ministry has warned its citizens against traveling to Japan during the Lunar New Year holiday. Citing a rise in crimes against Chinese nationals and earthquakes, it stated that people 'face serious security threats in Japan.' The advisory comes amid ongoing tensions over Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's November comments on Taiwan.
On January 27, China's foreign ministry issued a warning advising its nationals to avoid traveling to Japan during the Lunar New Year, the country's longest public holiday. The alert stems from Beijing's persistent anger over a remark made by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi in early November regarding democratically governed Taiwan.
The ministry cited 'a surge in crimes targeting Chinese citizens' and earthquakes, stating that nationals 'face serious security threats in Japan.' Takaichi's comment suggested that a hypothetical Chinese attack on Taiwan could prompt a military response from Tokyo, infuriating Beijing.
In response, China has imposed export curbs, canceled flights, and published vitriolic commentaries in state media. Its defense ministry has cautioned Tokyo of a 'crushing' military defeat should it intervene with force over Taiwan.
This advisory highlights escalating China-Japan tensions, potentially affecting tourism and bilateral ties. Similar past warnings from Beijing underscore the strained relations.